Sedum, commonly known as stonecrop, is a large genus of succulent plants offering diverse forms, textures, and colors for the landscape. The genus includes varieties with different growth habits, which determines their suitability as ground cover. Many low-growing and creeping species are effective ground covers due to their mat-forming spread and resilience. Their ability to thrive where many other plants fail makes them a practical choice for low-input garden design.
Defining Ground Cover Sedum Varieties
Ground cover Sedum varieties are the low-growing, mat-forming types, distinct from taller, upright species like ‘Autumn Joy.’ These creeping varieties have shallow root systems and typically reach a maximum height under six inches. Their spreading or trailing habit allows them to quickly form a dense carpet over the soil surface.
The foliage is fleshy and succulent, designed to store water, which contributes to their hardiness. Popular mat-forming examples include Sedum acre (Gold Moss), known for its tiny, bright green leaves and yellow flowers, and Sedum spurium, which forms a strong, dense mat. Sedum album (White Stonecrop) features foliage that shifts from green to reddish-pink in dry or cooler months. These plants are valued more for their colorful foliage than for their small, star-shaped flowers that appear in the summer.
Inherent Advantages for Low-Input Landscaping
Sedum’s succulent nature provides drought tolerance, allowing plants to survive extended dry periods using water stored in their leaves. This adaptation makes them a choice for water-wise landscaping, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation once established. They tolerate poor or shallow soil conditions, often thriving in rocky or sandy environments that lack fertility required by most other plants.
The dense, mat-like growth structure of creeping Sedum is effective for stabilizing soil, making it excellent for erosion control on slopes. This dense habit also suppresses weeds by crowding out open space where seeds might germinate. Sedum is naturally resistant to most garden pests and diseases, which lowers the need for chemical interventions and reduces overall maintenance.
Establishment and Long-Term Maintenance
Ground cover Sedum is easily established using small nursery plugs or simple vegetative propagation, such as stem cuttings. When planting, the soil must be well-draining; amending heavy clay with grit or sand helps prevent root rot, Sedum’s primary vulnerability. Initial spacing should be determined by the variety’s spread, with most low-growing types planted 6 to 12 inches apart for quick coverage.
New plantings require regular watering until the roots are established, but mature plants only need supplemental water during prolonged droughts. Fertilization is rarely necessary, as overly rich soil can lead to weak, “leggy” growth instead of dense coverage. Occasional light trimming or shearing can maintain a tidy appearance or control spread if the plant encroaches on surrounding areas.
The primary limitation of Sedum is its shallow root system and delicate stems, making it intolerant of heavy foot traffic. While it handles light, occasional steps, it is not a suitable substitute for turf in high-traffic areas. Additionally, certain vigorous types, such as Sedum spurium cultivars, can spread aggressively in ideal climates. These may require periodic division or boundary control to prevent them from overtaking nearby plantings.